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Wretched Soul
Wretched Soul features the emotionally scarred, morally grey Mace Griffin, and is the second interconnected standalone in the darkly addictive Wretched series. This stalker billionaire romance is tangled in secrets, obsession, and starts with a dangerous game that both predator and prey won’t want to end. Perfect for fans of S J Tilly, Navessa Allen and L J Shen.
When a highly-charged road-rage encounter ends in obsession, Lily finds herself playing a dangerous game with a billionaire who’s more shadow than man.
He stalks her. Protects her. Owns her.
But every time he catches her, he’s the one who loses a little more of himself.
“I like you wearing red, Lily. It matches those red flags I’ve been waving in your face.”
Wretched Soul is an interconnected standalone. It can be read on its own, but if you want to follow the overarching story and avoid spoilers, please read Wretched Heart first.
Lily
It started with road rage – mine.
After a seriously bad day at work, some idiot in a blacked-out SUV decides to cut me up. Blind fury takes over from rational thought and I jump out of my car to confront him. It’s only as I storm towards the driver that I register the expensive suit, broad shoulders and tensing biceps. Does that stop me screaming at him? Unfortunately, not.
The stranger’s stare is cool. Appraising. Lethal. And too hypnotic for my own good.
When I get no response, self-preservation finally kicks in and I retreat back to my car. Before I can drive off, he marches over and gives me a lecture on personal safety. I'm feeling anything but safe as I hit the gas, but I know I’ll be fantasizing about this hot as sin man for days to come after my lucky escape.
Except the game is just beginning…
The first time he finds me, I assume it’s coincidence. The next, I know it’s by design. And when I agree to his game of cat and mouse, I don’t expect to like being caught.
But I do.
Every. Single. Time.
I don’t know his name, and I don’t care. Because every time he claims me, I feel a little more protected, and a lot less alone.
If I have an issue, it’s that no matter how many times he catches me, he always disappears again.
It’s time for the hunted to become the hunter.
Mace
I don’t do feelings. Emotion is messy. Distracting. Dangerous. And as someone who lives in the shadows, it’s a liability I can’t afford.
My brothers and I built the Griffin empire without drawing attention to ourselves. I only get close to people when I’m hacking into their lives and digging up their secrets. It’s a way of life that suits me. I watch from a distance.
Then Lily Kendrick crashes into my life, full of fire and fury, and calling me every name under the sun.
She’s reckless, beautiful, infuriating. And completely unaware that now she’s stepped into my orbit, she’s never going to escape.
I know where she lives. Where she works. What keeps her up at night.
Some call it obsession.
I call it protection.
Because Lily is the only light I’ve ever been drawn to in my wretched life. I’ll do anything and everything to keep her safe. Even if it means breaking her trust.
She’s mine.
She just doesn’t know it yet.
When a highly-charged road-rage encounter ends in obsession, Lily finds herself playing a dangerous game with a billionaire who’s more shadow than man.
He stalks her. Protects her. Owns her.
But every time he catches her, he’s the one who loses a little more of himself.
“I like you wearing red, Lily. It matches those red flags I’ve been waving in your face.”
Wretched Soul is an interconnected standalone. It can be read on its own, but if you want to follow the overarching story and avoid spoilers, please read Wretched Heart first.
Lily
It started with road rage – mine.
After a seriously bad day at work, some idiot in a blacked-out SUV decides to cut me up. Blind fury takes over from rational thought and I jump out of my car to confront him. It’s only as I storm towards the driver that I register the expensive suit, broad shoulders and tensing biceps. Does that stop me screaming at him? Unfortunately, not.
The stranger’s stare is cool. Appraising. Lethal. And too hypnotic for my own good.
When I get no response, self-preservation finally kicks in and I retreat back to my car. Before I can drive off, he marches over and gives me a lecture on personal safety. I'm feeling anything but safe as I hit the gas, but I know I’ll be fantasizing about this hot as sin man for days to come after my lucky escape.
Except the game is just beginning…
The first time he finds me, I assume it’s coincidence. The next, I know it’s by design. And when I agree to his game of cat and mouse, I don’t expect to like being caught.
But I do.
Every. Single. Time.
I don’t know his name, and I don’t care. Because every time he claims me, I feel a little more protected, and a lot less alone.
If I have an issue, it’s that no matter how many times he catches me, he always disappears again.
It’s time for the hunted to become the hunter.
Mace
I don’t do feelings. Emotion is messy. Distracting. Dangerous. And as someone who lives in the shadows, it’s a liability I can’t afford.
My brothers and I built the Griffin empire without drawing attention to ourselves. I only get close to people when I’m hacking into their lives and digging up their secrets. It’s a way of life that suits me. I watch from a distance.
Then Lily Kendrick crashes into my life, full of fire and fury, and calling me every name under the sun.
She’s reckless, beautiful, infuriating. And completely unaware that now she’s stepped into my orbit, she’s never going to escape.
I know where she lives. Where she works. What keeps her up at night.
Some call it obsession.
I call it protection.
Because Lily is the only light I’ve ever been drawn to in my wretched life. I’ll do anything and everything to keep her safe. Even if it means breaking her trust.
She’s mine.
She just doesn’t know it yet.
- GenresRomance
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2025
17 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Anna J. Valentine
7 books27 followersAnna J Valentine was a traditionally published author, writing psychological suspense for over ten years before she fell in love with writing about falling in love!
Her heroines are feisty, her heroes passionate and their stories will take you on an emotional rollercoaster.
Her heroines are feisty, her heroes passionate and their stories will take you on an emotional rollercoaster.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 12, 2025
Book 2 of this series and let me tell you Anna has written another Fantastic Series ! Mace Is one of my favorite book boyfriends he’s A stalker over protector and loves to try and put Lily in her place . When I say Lily gives back as good as she gets she’s quick witted and try’s to protect her heart too .
They created Nicknames for each other for this dangerous game their playing Shade and Slayer trying to protect their heart and keep this a “ game “ but I’m not sure how good this is working for them . 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommend But seems All of Anna’s Books are a 10/10
They created Nicknames for each other for this dangerous game their playing Shade and Slayer trying to protect their heart and keep this a “ game “ but I’m not sure how good this is working for them . 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommend But seems All of Anna’s Books are a 10/10
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October 12, 2025I received an ARC copy -> so many thanks
🔰 intertwined stand-alone
🔰 4 brothers
🔰 MMC fighting self worth
🔰 FMC trauma
🔰 morally grey
🔰 Stalker
🔰 Billionaire/Mafia
🔰 spice is spicy 🥵🥵🥵
This is the 2nd installment in the Griffin Brothers and it did not disappoint.
Lily is a firery tempered accountant, with a serious case of road rage and no thought of her own safety. Mason Griffin is the second youngest of the brothers. The quiet brooding type that has found his niche is computers with a special skill in surveillance. A skill that Lily will soon learn all about.
It is clear from the offset that Mace does not follow societal norms and has no problem breaking them to protect those he cares for - even if they don't ask for it. His Darling Sister in Law sniffs out the subtle changes in his behaviour a mile away, which only adds to the battle he is already fighting. He believes he doesn't deserve Lily, but he also knows he can never let her go. Does he give into his shadows or learn to embrace her light?
Anna has such a talent for showing us the personal growth of the MFC, which makes me connect with them on such a strong level. Lily handles Maces love language better than I believe I could have, on more than one occasion, I found myself wondering would I have reacted the same to her situation or would I have run the other way.
Once again, I was hooked and loved this book from the first chapter. The depth and detail put into character and world building, without dragging it out unnecessarily, was ideal. I am grateful to have been introduced to the complex lives of the Griffin Brothers and am looking forward to finding out which brothers icy heart melts in the next instalment.
@annajvalentineauthor , thank you for welcoming me into your little world. That was a wonderful ride.
I give this all the stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#ArcReader #Booktok #booktwo #Billionaire #rebirth #morallygrey #ShadeandShadows #fightingtheurges #spicy #newseries #GriffinBrothers
🔰 intertwined stand-alone
🔰 4 brothers
🔰 MMC fighting self worth
🔰 FMC trauma
🔰 morally grey
🔰 Stalker
🔰 Billionaire/Mafia
🔰 spice is spicy 🥵🥵🥵
This is the 2nd installment in the Griffin Brothers and it did not disappoint.
Lily is a firery tempered accountant, with a serious case of road rage and no thought of her own safety. Mason Griffin is the second youngest of the brothers. The quiet brooding type that has found his niche is computers with a special skill in surveillance. A skill that Lily will soon learn all about.
It is clear from the offset that Mace does not follow societal norms and has no problem breaking them to protect those he cares for - even if they don't ask for it. His Darling Sister in Law sniffs out the subtle changes in his behaviour a mile away, which only adds to the battle he is already fighting. He believes he doesn't deserve Lily, but he also knows he can never let her go. Does he give into his shadows or learn to embrace her light?
Anna has such a talent for showing us the personal growth of the MFC, which makes me connect with them on such a strong level. Lily handles Maces love language better than I believe I could have, on more than one occasion, I found myself wondering would I have reacted the same to her situation or would I have run the other way.
Once again, I was hooked and loved this book from the first chapter. The depth and detail put into character and world building, without dragging it out unnecessarily, was ideal. I am grateful to have been introduced to the complex lives of the Griffin Brothers and am looking forward to finding out which brothers icy heart melts in the next instalment.
@annajvalentineauthor , thank you for welcoming me into your little world. That was a wonderful ride.
I give this all the stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#ArcReader #Booktok #booktwo #Billionaire #rebirth #morallygrey #ShadeandShadows #fightingtheurges #spicy #newseries #GriffinBrothers
November 1, 2025
Mace Griffin is my favorite Griffin brother so far lol. He is a broody billionaire who is great with cyber hacking. Mace and Lily meet in a heated exchange in traffic, but they can't get each other off their minds. Mace with his hacking skills finds her and the begin a stalking game. Their chemistry is insane. He knows her name but he won't tell her his. He calls her Slayer, and she calls him Shade. The Griffin brothers never wanted to settle down, but the pull Lily had on Mace is too much to ignore. This book was incredible. I absolutely loved it!!
November 1, 2025
The story grabbed my attention from the beginning. The road rage Lily had was so
funny, and her conversation with Kaitlyn while driving was real and relatable.
Mason’s immediate need to protect Lily and teach her how to look after herself made
me want to understand Mason better. What is his need to protect her and why was he
so drawn to her? I loved this entire storyline. I loved that Mason tried to pull back from
his need to protect Lily, but ultimately accepted who he is and didn’t apologize for it. Lily realizing she’s never felt safer than when she was with Mace, struck a cord with me.
I love the bond between the Griffin brothers, the way Anna shows the bond between the brothers is perfect. They were there for Mason when he was spiraling and wouldn't leave him alone, that is how brother’s should
act.
Although Alice wasn’t really a mother to the 4 Griffins, I was glad they went to the hospital
to say goodbye, not for her but for them. I was so proud of them brothers not forgiving her and giving her a HEA.
Maddison is still giving the brothers trouble and it just makes me smile. Mason is my fat my favorite Griffin brother. His stalking and need to evasedrop aka protect Lily is something a lot of women secretly want Lol! I can't wait to read the final two brothers' stories.
funny, and her conversation with Kaitlyn while driving was real and relatable.
Mason’s immediate need to protect Lily and teach her how to look after herself made
me want to understand Mason better. What is his need to protect her and why was he
so drawn to her? I loved this entire storyline. I loved that Mason tried to pull back from
his need to protect Lily, but ultimately accepted who he is and didn’t apologize for it. Lily realizing she’s never felt safer than when she was with Mace, struck a cord with me.
I love the bond between the Griffin brothers, the way Anna shows the bond between the brothers is perfect. They were there for Mason when he was spiraling and wouldn't leave him alone, that is how brother’s should
act.
Although Alice wasn’t really a mother to the 4 Griffins, I was glad they went to the hospital
to say goodbye, not for her but for them. I was so proud of them brothers not forgiving her and giving her a HEA.
Maddison is still giving the brothers trouble and it just makes me smile. Mason is my fat my favorite Griffin brother. His stalking and need to evasedrop aka protect Lily is something a lot of women secretly want Lol! I can't wait to read the final two brothers' stories.
October 14, 2025
I had the privilege of being an ARC reader for this book, just like I did for the book that started the series.
If you've already read Hunter and Maddie's story, it's time to meet Mace - the family's silent protector, constantly monitoring everything.
This game starts with a road rage - Lily doesn't hold back when confronting Mace even though her instincts tell her to be careful. Mace falls under Lily's spell immediately.
Mace begins to monitor Lily's life obsessively like the unapologetic stalker he is. A dangerous game of hunting for prey begins - the more Lily runs away, the closer the shadow gets. And oops - what a first kiss..
I enjoyed this book even more than the previous one. The cleverly constructed cat-and-mouse game with its twists and turns kept me hooked and I read the book in no time.
If you haven't read Anna Valentine's books yet, this series is a good place to start. The overarching storyline continues here, so I recommend reading the books in order to avoid spoilers and catch every twist.
If you've already read Hunter and Maddie's story, it's time to meet Mace - the family's silent protector, constantly monitoring everything.
This game starts with a road rage - Lily doesn't hold back when confronting Mace even though her instincts tell her to be careful. Mace falls under Lily's spell immediately.
Mace begins to monitor Lily's life obsessively like the unapologetic stalker he is. A dangerous game of hunting for prey begins - the more Lily runs away, the closer the shadow gets. And oops - what a first kiss..
I enjoyed this book even more than the previous one. The cleverly constructed cat-and-mouse game with its twists and turns kept me hooked and I read the book in no time.
If you haven't read Anna Valentine's books yet, this series is a good place to start. The overarching storyline continues here, so I recommend reading the books in order to avoid spoilers and catch every twist.
September 15, 2025
Another banger from Anna J Valentine. These Griffin brothers have worked their way into my soul. 2% into the book & I was already smitten with Lily. The first interaction between her & Mace had me in fits of laughter. Lily is a girl after my own heart haha! Mace is your morally grey stalker mmc, a computer whiz who goes to any length to protect what’s his, & make no mistake - Lily is his. The sparks that fly between them create fire that neither of them can put out. “You’re my light & I’m your shadow” is the perfect quote to sum these two up. Lily likes to push Mace’s buttons, & the cat & mouse game they play provides a lot of banter between the two. There’s so much I loved about this book, several moments had me simultaneously cringing & laughing, having to re-read to make sure I’d read it right. Download this, you won’t regret it.
October 16, 2025
ARC received — review completely voluntary.
I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reading Copy of Wretched Souls by Anna J. Valentine. This is book two in the Wretched series, and it pulls you right back into the dark, addictive world introduced in book one.
If you’ve read Hunter’s story, you already have the backbone for understanding why Mace is the way he is in this book. Every dark romance lover knows the thrill of a possessive antihero—and Lily finds herself living that fantasy when Mace starts stalking her in different locations. Instead of running, she meets the challenge head-on, determined to uncover who he is… even if she’s no match for a pro like Mace.
A dangerous game is set, and Lily is all in for the prize. But what happens when you start falling for your stalker, even though you still don’t know his identity? The tension and chemistry between them is electric from their road-rage encounter all the way to the very end.
Anna J. Valentine has a real gift for writing these brothers—they’re cut from the same cloth, yet each has their own edge and intensity. Lily is the kind of feisty FMC I love: strong, bold, and unafraid to chase what she wants.
I’m already counting down the days for the next brother’s book in the series. If you love dark romance with obsessive heroes and fearless heroines, this one’s for you
I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reading Copy of Wretched Souls by Anna J. Valentine. This is book two in the Wretched series, and it pulls you right back into the dark, addictive world introduced in book one.
If you’ve read Hunter’s story, you already have the backbone for understanding why Mace is the way he is in this book. Every dark romance lover knows the thrill of a possessive antihero—and Lily finds herself living that fantasy when Mace starts stalking her in different locations. Instead of running, she meets the challenge head-on, determined to uncover who he is… even if she’s no match for a pro like Mace.
A dangerous game is set, and Lily is all in for the prize. But what happens when you start falling for your stalker, even though you still don’t know his identity? The tension and chemistry between them is electric from their road-rage encounter all the way to the very end.
Anna J. Valentine has a real gift for writing these brothers—they’re cut from the same cloth, yet each has their own edge and intensity. Lily is the kind of feisty FMC I love: strong, bold, and unafraid to chase what she wants.
I’m already counting down the days for the next brother’s book in the series. If you love dark romance with obsessive heroes and fearless heroines, this one’s for you
October 20, 2025
“I am allowed to leave your sight?”
“Oh, no. Never,” he says quickly to put an end to that particular debate.
“My shadow,” she whispers.
I spin us around and press her back against the wall.
“My light. And the only reason my heart keeps on beating.”
I didn’t think this series could get any better, but Wrenched Soul proved me wrong! Mace and Lily are absolutely electric together. It all started in a traffic jam—she got out of her car just to tell him off! Ha! Who even does that? But that moment put her right in his line of sight, and from then on, there was no stopping him.
What I love most is how their relationship unfolds like a game where both win. The chemistry, the tension, the banter—it’s all perfection. And the plot! The storyline from Wretched Heart continues seamlessly, keeping the mystery alive. I’m thrilled that everything didn’t get neatly tied up in book one; it makes the series so much more addictive.
Now I’m just counting the days until I can watch Reid fall.
“Oh, no. Never,” he says quickly to put an end to that particular debate.
“My shadow,” she whispers.
I spin us around and press her back against the wall.
“My light. And the only reason my heart keeps on beating.”
I didn’t think this series could get any better, but Wrenched Soul proved me wrong! Mace and Lily are absolutely electric together. It all started in a traffic jam—she got out of her car just to tell him off! Ha! Who even does that? But that moment put her right in his line of sight, and from then on, there was no stopping him.
What I love most is how their relationship unfolds like a game where both win. The chemistry, the tension, the banter—it’s all perfection. And the plot! The storyline from Wretched Heart continues seamlessly, keeping the mystery alive. I’m thrilled that everything didn’t get neatly tied up in book one; it makes the series so much more addictive.
Now I’m just counting the days until I can watch Reid fall.
November 2, 2025
I was so fortunate to get the ARC for this masterpiece... Thank you so much!
Mace Mace Mace, I don't know if any other brother will live up to the man he is. is he a stalker... yes, but is he so in love and obsessed with her and will do anything he has to get her... also yes. This man is so down bad for this girl, he really puts all his stalking and tech skills to use.
Lily is a fierce, strong woman who gives it back to Mace just as good as he does. She doesn't know his name but that's not going to scare her away. She'll keep him on his toes if it's the last thing she does.
Their story had me so locked in my seat, I finished it in one sitting. It was the perfect morally grey romance with the best banter. I can't wait to see what the next book has in store!!
Mace Mace Mace, I don't know if any other brother will live up to the man he is. is he a stalker... yes, but is he so in love and obsessed with her and will do anything he has to get her... also yes. This man is so down bad for this girl, he really puts all his stalking and tech skills to use.
Lily is a fierce, strong woman who gives it back to Mace just as good as he does. She doesn't know his name but that's not going to scare her away. She'll keep him on his toes if it's the last thing she does.
Their story had me so locked in my seat, I finished it in one sitting. It was the perfect morally grey romance with the best banter. I can't wait to see what the next book has in store!!
October 11, 2025
Shade and Lily omg they make me scream so loud that my throat hurts but do I care ? Absolutely no.
I just loved this book so much that I couldn’t put it down. Mace gosh what a walking red flag he was and he didn’t even hide it and accepted. Lily what a girl she is. And do you guys want to know my favourite scene ? It’s their first kiss 🙈. I’ve never enjoyed any first kiss like this ever. And the way Lily says oops 🙊. I devoured this book completely. And can’t wait for next ones in this series.
I just loved this book so much that I couldn’t put it down. Mace gosh what a walking red flag he was and he didn’t even hide it and accepted. Lily what a girl she is. And do you guys want to know my favourite scene ? It’s their first kiss 🙈. I’ve never enjoyed any first kiss like this ever. And the way Lily says oops 🙊. I devoured this book completely. And can’t wait for next ones in this series.
January 11, 2026
wait but this was SO good!
I had been in a bit of a funk when i got this book recommended. I was looking for a fun, strong fmc and a bit of a stalker story and then here we were and i gobbled this up!
Lily has a bit of anger issues, but overall shes sweet but knows what she wants. Shes not freaked out about Masons life and shes just as freaky as this dude and wont let him push her away.
I do wish we got more time with them getting to know each other but anyway i generally really enjoyed this.
I had been in a bit of a funk when i got this book recommended. I was looking for a fun, strong fmc and a bit of a stalker story and then here we were and i gobbled this up!
Lily has a bit of anger issues, but overall shes sweet but knows what she wants. Shes not freaked out about Masons life and shes just as freaky as this dude and wont let him push her away.
I do wish we got more time with them getting to know each other but anyway i generally really enjoyed this.
October 10, 2025
Best 1st kiss i've read about EVER! Absolutely loved this book i could not put it down! The banter between these 2 is so funny! I laughed and cried, and got excited throughout this book. Oh and cant forget that EPIC 1st kiss...oh my! Loved the fact that he knew his stalkery ways and all the red flags he kept throwing but never tried to hide them and openly admitted to them. I love "Shade" so much! I think he is my favorite.
October 12, 2025
If you love a protective, possessive MMC who doesn’t know the meaning of “boundaries,” Mason Griffin will absolutely steal your heart (and maybe your sanity). But don’t let Lily fool you — she’s no damsel in distress. She gives just as good as she gets, matching Mason’s intensity with strength, sass, and heart.
This story has the perfect balance of plot and spice — the chemistry is electric, and the emotional depth keeps you turning the pages. I didn’t think the Griffin series could get any better… but I was so wrong. Mason has officially claimed the top spot as my favorite Griffin brother (for now 👀), and I’m counting down the days until we get Ash and Reid’s stories!
If you’re a fan of protective heroes, strong heroines, and steamy romance, this one’s an absolute must-read.
This story has the perfect balance of plot and spice — the chemistry is electric, and the emotional depth keeps you turning the pages. I didn’t think the Griffin series could get any better… but I was so wrong. Mason has officially claimed the top spot as my favorite Griffin brother (for now 👀), and I’m counting down the days until we get Ash and Reid’s stories!
If you’re a fan of protective heroes, strong heroines, and steamy romance, this one’s an absolute must-read.
October 11, 2025
I just can't with these Griffin brothers! I didn't think it could get better than Hunter but it did! Lily challenges Mace at every turn and it is so entertaining to read about. The whole book, I could not wait for Lily to meet Maddie and it did not disappoint. Already excited for the next one!
October 11, 2025
Mace and Lily's story grabs you from the very beginning, I couldn't put it down i absolutely love the griffin brothers, you won't be disappointed with this book, i cant wait for the next one.
October 31, 2025
This series is absolutely amazing! Lily is having the day from hell—her work colleague has stolen her clients, and on her way home, some idiot cuts her off on the road, leaving her furious. That idiot turns out to be Mace. He thinks she's cute, and Lily thinks he's hot. And so begins Mace's obsession with Lily. Mace doesn’t do relationships, and she doesn’t even know who he is, but he knows everything about her. You’ll fall in love with the characters—an incredible read! I can’t wait for book 3.
October 15, 2025
Second book in the Wretched Series and it just keeps getting better. I am obsessed with these brothers! Also, the spice was SPICE'ing!
Lily is a spitfire who has gone through some family heartbreak and work place drama. Through it all she still searches for love. Even if it is with a man who won't share his real name.
Mace is dark and haunted by his family's past, but still a protector for those he loves. He is obsessed with Lily and watches over her while still trying to protect his heart and keep Lily away from the dark.
I LOVED reading their story and the ongoing drama with Alice and Barrett made this book so hard to put down.
Lily is a spitfire who has gone through some family heartbreak and work place drama. Through it all she still searches for love. Even if it is with a man who won't share his real name.
Mace is dark and haunted by his family's past, but still a protector for those he loves. He is obsessed with Lily and watches over her while still trying to protect his heart and keep Lily away from the dark.
I LOVED reading their story and the ongoing drama with Alice and Barrett made this book so hard to put down.
October 26, 2025
Definitely my favorite so far! Mace is unhinged but in the best way possible!
October 21, 2025
Got ARC copy…
Mace stole my heart! The armor he coats himself in to not be hurt, again, by a woman is heartbreaking. But in comes the spitfire that is Lily who is seemingly sweet and innocent… but we know she’s the right one to break that heaviness Mace carries. The banter is great, these two had me laughing and expecting the unexpected. I cannot wait for the next one!
Mace stole my heart! The armor he coats himself in to not be hurt, again, by a woman is heartbreaking. But in comes the spitfire that is Lily who is seemingly sweet and innocent… but we know she’s the right one to break that heaviness Mace carries. The banter is great, these two had me laughing and expecting the unexpected. I cannot wait for the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2025
MASON GRIFFIN!
He was exactly what I expected and more! I loved how unapologetic he was about his dark ways crossing boundaries. Lily is the perfect match for him! The feisty attitude she served him with when he cut her off was so funny! She caught his attention right from the start. Their little game of cat and mouse was so fun. Honestly i was grinning so hard when she pretends like she didn’t love what he was doing 😂 I can’t wait to read more about them in the coming books!
Thank you Anna for the ARC! I can’t wait for more!
He was exactly what I expected and more! I loved how unapologetic he was about his dark ways crossing boundaries. Lily is the perfect match for him! The feisty attitude she served him with when he cut her off was so funny! She caught his attention right from the start. Their little game of cat and mouse was so fun. Honestly i was grinning so hard when she pretends like she didn’t love what he was doing 😂 I can’t wait to read more about them in the coming books!
Thank you Anna for the ARC! I can’t wait for more!
November 4, 2025
I received this as an ARC & absolutely loved it! Mason and Lily are couple goals. The wit, their banter & how they overcame their initial meeting to fall in love and find happiness is a wonderful story. Also, the SPICE! 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 😮💨🫠 WOW! I’m excited for the rest of the Griffin Brothers & the women who bring them to their knees ❤️
October 21, 2025
Loved it.. Oooh the story of Mace and Lilly will leave you breathless the entire time. The cat and mouse chase between them is too much to handle. Mace, the protector , will have you either loving him or wanting to slap some sense into him. The continuation of the storyline takes an interesting turn and can’t wait for the next book in the series to see what gonna happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2025
Mrs. Anna J Valentine has me by the you know what with this series.....
** Received as an ARC, Thank you again**
Mace and Lily.. or should I say Shade and Lily... myyyyyyyy goodnesssssss
First, Mace had my type of MMC from book one.. i love a jerky, grouchy, big, tattooed, alpha... Lord have mercy. I knew I was going to love him.
BUT Lily came for me just as hard... the traffic incident had me cackling... how come none of the jerks I've ever yelled at in traffic look like Mace.. i mean come on.
This had the spice and the banter but it also had deep deep feelings of not being enough and holding things at a distance to avoid the hurt.
If you were looking forward to Mace's story as much as i was this DOES NOT disappoint.
Side note we need a Kaitlyn and Simon story!!!!!
The suspense just keeps getting better and better i love that they get their HEA while the plot thickens and continues on!
MUST READ!
** Received as an ARC, Thank you again**
Mace and Lily.. or should I say Shade and Lily... myyyyyyyy goodnesssssss
First, Mace had my type of MMC from book one.. i love a jerky, grouchy, big, tattooed, alpha... Lord have mercy. I knew I was going to love him.
BUT Lily came for me just as hard... the traffic incident had me cackling... how come none of the jerks I've ever yelled at in traffic look like Mace.. i mean come on.
This had the spice and the banter but it also had deep deep feelings of not being enough and holding things at a distance to avoid the hurt.
If you were looking forward to Mace's story as much as i was this DOES NOT disappoint.
Side note we need a Kaitlyn and Simon story!!!!!
The suspense just keeps getting better and better i love that they get their HEA while the plot thickens and continues on!
MUST READ!
January 6, 2026
Wretched Soul is the second installment of the Griffin Brothers series, and while it can be read as a standalone, you’ll definitely want to see how these brothers’ stories intertwine. This time, we follow Mace—the tech and surveillance expert—and the spitfire who finally matches his "crazy," Lilly.
Their "meet-cute" isn't exactly traditional; it starts with a highway confrontation and ends with Mace placing a tracker on her car. Yes, he’s a total "sweet stalker," and I loved every second of it! Their relationship is a high-stakes game of cat and mouse where nicknames and "no-strings" rules are meant to keep things light. However, the emotional depth really shines through as they navigate their own baggage: Lilly’s fear of being left behind and Mace’s internal struggle with feeling unworthy of her.
Between the playful games and the mounting tension, the overarching family drama continues as the Griffins deal with their estranged mother, Alice, and the villainous Barrett. Lilly is the perfect foil for Mace—she handles his intensity with her own brand of chaos. If you love a tech-savvy hero who is a little bit obsessed and a whole lot of protective, Mace is your man. I’m calling it now: he’s my favorite Griffin brother!
Final Thoughts:
Anna J. Valentine is an amazing writer. The way she has built this story, along with the growth and background of these characters, is incredible. This is an author to read and follow!
Their "meet-cute" isn't exactly traditional; it starts with a highway confrontation and ends with Mace placing a tracker on her car. Yes, he’s a total "sweet stalker," and I loved every second of it! Their relationship is a high-stakes game of cat and mouse where nicknames and "no-strings" rules are meant to keep things light. However, the emotional depth really shines through as they navigate their own baggage: Lilly’s fear of being left behind and Mace’s internal struggle with feeling unworthy of her.
Between the playful games and the mounting tension, the overarching family drama continues as the Griffins deal with their estranged mother, Alice, and the villainous Barrett. Lilly is the perfect foil for Mace—she handles his intensity with her own brand of chaos. If you love a tech-savvy hero who is a little bit obsessed and a whole lot of protective, Mace is your man. I’m calling it now: he’s my favorite Griffin brother!
Final Thoughts:
Anna J. Valentine is an amazing writer. The way she has built this story, along with the growth and background of these characters, is incredible. This is an author to read and follow!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2025
The Wretched Series tells the story of four rich, alpha brothers. Three of them have sworn off love due to abandonment issues in their childhood. Each book we get to watch another brother fight the inevitable as their hearts melt. Each brother gets their own story but there is an ongoing story that carries on through each book. Definitely start with book #1, Wretched Heart.
Who doesn’t love a story with an obsessive, stalker, computer hacker?!
Mace is everything hot and broody, broken and controlling. His childhood issues have hardened his heart and caused him to spend more time with his computers than people.
Lily is the perfect match for Mace. While she has some issues with grief she is dealing with, she is feisty and the sunshine that our broody brother needs.
Things I will never look at the same after reading this book: snow and bread and olive oil dipping sauce. You will understand when you read it!
I’m intrigued by the secondary story that connects each of the books. Can’t wait to see where book #3 takes us because the sneak peek was not enough!!
Favorite Quotes
Lily: Good b….. Mace: You dare say it, and I might have to bend you over that table and show you there’s nothing good about this boy
Lily: Take me to your darkest places and let me be your light
Who doesn’t love a story with an obsessive, stalker, computer hacker?!
Mace is everything hot and broody, broken and controlling. His childhood issues have hardened his heart and caused him to spend more time with his computers than people.
Lily is the perfect match for Mace. While she has some issues with grief she is dealing with, she is feisty and the sunshine that our broody brother needs.
Things I will never look at the same after reading this book: snow and bread and olive oil dipping sauce. You will understand when you read it!
I’m intrigued by the secondary story that connects each of the books. Can’t wait to see where book #3 takes us because the sneak peek was not enough!!
Favorite Quotes
Lily: Good b….. Mace: You dare say it, and I might have to bend you over that table and show you there’s nothing good about this boy
Lily: Take me to your darkest places and let me be your light
October 31, 2025
“When you play in the shadows, it’s not the darkness you crave or the light that you seek. It’s the dance between the two.” Anna J Valentine
Wretched Soul is now my Favourite … I know I keep saying this but hotdang…. I LOVED IT.
Toats in Book Love… I think I found myself an obsessed Hottie with Morals. (Well Questionable ones at best but they are there… )
The chemistry is obviously off the charts!!
I loved how they met (I'm leaving some for you to find out yourself but how cool… there is hope!)
Lily and her Shadow , Or Slayer and her Shadow are the coolest ever. They have me addicted to their story. The Good, the Bad, the Ugly and Ultimately the LOVE.
mwha… xxxx Run off and go read it!!
“Oh, believe me,” I say in a low, menacing voice, “if anyone else touches you, I’ll be dealing with them.” That shuts her up. And it leaves me almost speechless too. I’m already claiming her. My nose brushes against her ear. “I should make you mine.” Her breath catches on an inhale. “I don’t even know your name.” “No, you don’t,”
Wretched Soul is now my Favourite … I know I keep saying this but hotdang…. I LOVED IT.
Toats in Book Love… I think I found myself an obsessed Hottie with Morals. (Well Questionable ones at best but they are there… )
The chemistry is obviously off the charts!!
I loved how they met (I'm leaving some for you to find out yourself but how cool… there is hope!)
Lily and her Shadow , Or Slayer and her Shadow are the coolest ever. They have me addicted to their story. The Good, the Bad, the Ugly and Ultimately the LOVE.
mwha… xxxx Run off and go read it!!
“Oh, believe me,” I say in a low, menacing voice, “if anyone else touches you, I’ll be dealing with them.” That shuts her up. And it leaves me almost speechless too. I’m already claiming her. My nose brushes against her ear. “I should make you mine.” Her breath catches on an inhale. “I don’t even know your name.” “No, you don’t,”
October 20, 2025
Wretched Soul is book 2 of the Griffin brothers series. I absolutely love this book. The "games" that the male character Mace and female character Lily play kept the book moving quickly. The back and forth between the two was playful. There were some dramatic and tense moments, but this was a much lighter read. I appreciated that fact.
The plot of half brother Barrett and his evil plans continues to build somewhat, but it is not the ptimary storyline as it had been in the first book.
I am really enjoying these characters, and even though they aren't the main focus, the brothers' personalities continue to build in each book.
Anna is setting us up to love each one of these characters she has created, and I am here for it.
There is no cliffhanger, but I can't wait to see what is in store for the next brother.
I can't recommend this series enough!!!
The plot of half brother Barrett and his evil plans continues to build somewhat, but it is not the ptimary storyline as it had been in the first book.
I am really enjoying these characters, and even though they aren't the main focus, the brothers' personalities continue to build in each book.
Anna is setting us up to love each one of these characters she has created, and I am here for it.
There is no cliffhanger, but I can't wait to see what is in store for the next brother.
I can't recommend this series enough!!!
October 31, 2025
I absolutely love Mace and Lily.
Mace is totally unhinged. He's an obsessive stalker who's scared of showing any vulnerability. Lily is impulsive and enjoys the taboo game she plays with Mace. She ignores all the red flags.
When Lily finally gets tired of the game, it forces Mace to acknowledge his feelings for her. While trying to teach Mace a lesson, Lily's impulsive nature nearly has a devastating result. Fortunately Mace is able to save her.
Mace never stops being obsessive when it comes to Lily. He also has boundary issues, but he did warn Lily.
I gave this book 5 stars because I loved the chemistry between Lily and Mace. The writing was great, and the story left me wanting more of the Griffin family. Next up is Reid's story.
Mace is totally unhinged. He's an obsessive stalker who's scared of showing any vulnerability. Lily is impulsive and enjoys the taboo game she plays with Mace. She ignores all the red flags.
When Lily finally gets tired of the game, it forces Mace to acknowledge his feelings for her. While trying to teach Mace a lesson, Lily's impulsive nature nearly has a devastating result. Fortunately Mace is able to save her.
Mace never stops being obsessive when it comes to Lily. He also has boundary issues, but he did warn Lily.
I gave this book 5 stars because I loved the chemistry between Lily and Mace. The writing was great, and the story left me wanting more of the Griffin family. Next up is Reid's story.
October 16, 2025
Wretched Soul hooked me from the very beginning! He manages to get on her fiery side right away, and the banter between them is absolute perfection. She doesn’t hold back — tells him off every chance she gets — and I loved her strength and attitude. He falls for her fast (even if he’s too stubborn to admit it), and the tension between them is just chef’s kiss.
I also loved that she only knows him as Shade for most of the story, which adds this mysterious edge that keeps you turning pages. When everything finally unravels, it hits hard — she needs to process, and he’s left miserable, and you feel it.
Their dynamic had me laughing, swooning, and yelling at the book (in the best way). I can’t wait for Reid’s story next!
*I received a free copy and chose to leave an honest review.
I also loved that she only knows him as Shade for most of the story, which adds this mysterious edge that keeps you turning pages. When everything finally unravels, it hits hard — she needs to process, and he’s left miserable, and you feel it.
Their dynamic had me laughing, swooning, and yelling at the book (in the best way). I can’t wait for Reid’s story next!
*I received a free copy and chose to leave an honest review.
October 21, 2025
I love Mace and Lily.
The 4 stars isn't enough but 5 for me is slightly too many but only because I wanted a bit more of the interconnecting plot that links all the books in the series.
That being said I am already excited for book 3.
The story of how all these hot brothers hearts are melting is captivating after being so closed off.
Mace is the most stalkerish stalker ever there's nothing he can't find on "his girl" but Lily is giving as good as she gets, which nearly gets her into a whole heap of trouble.
Things that will live with me rent free
Bread and dipping sauce.
Read this book and you'll understand why 😉
The 4 stars isn't enough but 5 for me is slightly too many but only because I wanted a bit more of the interconnecting plot that links all the books in the series.
That being said I am already excited for book 3.
The story of how all these hot brothers hearts are melting is captivating after being so closed off.
Mace is the most stalkerish stalker ever there's nothing he can't find on "his girl" but Lily is giving as good as she gets, which nearly gets her into a whole heap of trouble.
Things that will live with me rent free
Bread and dipping sauce.
Read this book and you'll understand why 😉
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